Overview

An acanthoma is a small, reddish bump that usually develops on the skin of an older adult. There are several types of acanthoma, including "acantholytic", "epidermolytic", "clear cell", and "melanoacanthoma".[1] Though most individuals have only one acanthoma, there have been rare reports of individuals who have developed many. The exact cause of acanthoma is not known; it is sometimes called a benign tumor, and sometimes described as the result of inflammation. Acanthomas are not considered dangerous and do not require treatment, but they may be removed for cosmetic reasons or to relieve any associated symptoms.[2][3]

Andrews BT, Trask DK. Oral melanoacanthoma: a case report, a review of the literature, and a new treatment option. The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology. 2005; 114:677-680. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16240929#. Accessed 3/26/2012.